Downtown Sarasota

After our tour of The Ringling, we enjoyed Part II of our nineteenth anniversary day trip in downtown Sarasota. I'm obsessed with historic districts, especially if they involve bookstores. 

Living on the central east coast of Florida, I'm enamored with the south Florida shift in palm trees and overall terrain. You don't have to travel far to experience very different sides of the Florida experience.

We began our time with the grand idea of a progressive dinner, but filled up too much at the first restaurant, 1592 Woodfired Kitchen. 

I really appreciate how Bookstore 1 fills their shelves with personalized staff commentary on books. Most bookstores do this for one display, but you could find commentary throughout the entire bookstore here.

Parker's Books oozes charm from the music to the historic bookstore vibes. I wanted to curl up in a corner and stay for hours. There was also a gorgeous display of curated vintage books and art. Delicious!

Bayfront Park

We finished our time with a romantic stroll around Bayfront Park at sunset, dreaming of our next boat ride. I dipped my toes into the gulf water, hopeful for warmth, but alas it was still very chilly. 

Late-Night Dining

We popped into The Glass Knife for my favorite red velvet cake in Winter Park on the drive home - a very sweet ending.